Last week the youngest son of one of my best friends died. He was 21. Three and a half years ago he had an accident which resulted in him suffering a severe traumatic brain injury, just like H. His mum and I met through an online support group for people with loved ones with disorders of consciousness. The paths that our children have taken during their lives have been so similar. Even after their accidents they have followed similar paths. I have often turned to her for advice and reassurance about what is happening to H. Our professions are similar. Our outlooks are similar. We are a force to be reckoned with apparently. She is my partner in crime!!

Last week, her boy was doing well, he was beginning to respond a little more, there were a few smiles. His mum captured some of it on her phone. Within 48 hours he was dead. He developed sepsis and eventually went into Intensive Care and all his organs shut down. They are now waiting for coroner reports, possible inquests and are making funeral arrangements.

It got me thinking. What would I do if this happened with H? What would we do if she was to die? Would she be buried or cremated? Where would her body or remains go? These are discussions her father and I should have in the not to distant future.

Life is very fragile. This has already been shown by the aftermath of the accident Helen had. It has been shown by people who have gone about their normal day and have suffered a catastrophic event that changed their life and the life of those around them. It has been shown by this young man losing his life less than 24 hours after becoming ill.

My latest tattoo says "Live for today as tomorrow is promised to no-one". It's very true.